The IndyCar world is buzzing as Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR), champions of the NTT IndyCar Series, prepares to test the 2022 Formula 2 champion, Felipe Drugovich, at Barber Motorsports Park on September 30. In a thrilling twist, Andretti Global will also put their promising talent, Indy NXT race winner Jamie Chadwick, behind the wheel for her first IndyCar run at the same test, setting the stage for a showdown of motorsport’s most exciting prospects.
Drugovich’s Big Day: An F1 Reserve and F2 Champion Set to Impress
CGR’s managing director Mike Hull confirmed the news, stating, “We’ve received approval today from IndyCar to test him.” However, with CGR’s downsized three-car roster for 2025 already filled, Drugovich isn’t eyeing a race seat—yet. The Brazilian, who currently serves as a test and reserve driver for Aston Martin’s F1 team, has caught the eye of CGR, especially after a standout run by 2021 F2 runner-up Robert Schwarzman left the team hungry for more top-tier talent.
Hull admitted that testing Drugovich had been on their agenda for over a year, and after meeting him at Le Mans, they were convinced of his potential. “We wanted to test him a year ago and we’re catching up on that,” Hull shared. “We were impressed with him up close and personal, and we think it’s worth doing.”
Future IndyCar Stars on the Rise: Who’s Next?
CGR isn’t stopping at Drugovich. Hull hinted at further tests during the offseason, with plans to give another young talent their shot at IndyCar glory before year’s end. “We still have the ability to test an Indy NXT driver because of the regulations,” he said, teasing the possibility of more fresh faces making waves in the series.
Jamie Chadwick’s Turn: Andretti Global’s Gamble on the Rising Star
Meanwhile, Andretti Global is set to make headlines by offering Jamie Chadwick, one of motorsport’s most promising female drivers, her IndyCar debut. The three-time W Series champion and current Indy NXT race winner is about to make a leap that could redefine her career—and the landscape of women in motorsport.
A Glimpse into the Future: Drugovich and Chadwick on the Cusp of Greatness
With two of racing’s brightest young stars set to test their skills in IndyCar machinery, the stakes couldn’t be higher. As Drugovich and Chadwick take to the track, all eyes will be on Barber Motorsports Park. These tests are not just routine outings—they’re potential game-changers that could alter the trajectory of their careers and shake up the future of IndyCar. Will these rising stars live up to the hype, or is the pressure of the big leagues too much to handle? One thing’s for sure: the next generation of talent is ready to make its mark, and the battle for the future of IndyCar is just beginning.